negative response

USAGE SUMMARY

"negative response" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a response that is not affirming or agreeing with something. For example, "When I asked him for his opinion, his negative response was unexpected".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We expected a negative response," Kelly says.

The Guardian

Asked that way, the question practically demands a negative response.

The New Yorker

Is there ever a negative response in the crowd?

The Guardian

There was either no response or a negative response.

The New York Times

"It's only predictive if there's a negative response".

The New Yorker

At first the script received a negative response at Columbia.

The New York Times

The exhibition was popular, he said, and provoked "very little negative response".

The New York Times

You can't control the world, so try controlling your negative response to it.

The Guardian - Opinion

The reason he needs courage, he says, is the negative response he usually gets.

The New York Times

"There can also be a negative response to returned soldiers from the local communities".

The Guardian

South made a negative response of one diamond, and North bid that suit naturally.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the impact of an action or decision, use "negative response" to clearly convey that the reaction was unfavorable or detrimental. For instance, "The policy change led to a significant "negative response" from employees".

Common error

While "negative response" is appropriate, overuse can make your writing sound monotonous. Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "unfavorable reaction" or "critical feedback" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "negative response" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a reaction or answer that is unfavorable or disapproving. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "negative response" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe an unfavorable reaction or reply. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable. With a neutral register, it fits diverse contexts, most commonly appearing in news, scientific, and formal communications. Related phrases include "unfavorable reaction" and "hostile reception", offering nuanced alternatives. While "negative response" is valuable, it's wise to vary your language to avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unfavorable reaction

Focuses on the reaction being not in favor of something.

adverse reaction

Highlights the harmful or undesirable nature of the response.

disapproval

Highlights the expression of not agreeing with something.

hostile reception

Emphasizes the antagonistic nature of the response.

critical response

Emphasizes a response that includes negative assessment or judgment.

poor feedback

Specifically refers to feedback that is not positive or helpful.

lukewarm reaction

Suggests a response lacking enthusiasm or interest.

lack of enthusiasm

Emphasizes the absence of positive emotion.

cold shoulder

Implies a deliberate act of ignoring or being unfriendly.

rejection

Focuses on the act of refusing or dismissing something.

FAQs

How can I use "negative response" in a sentence?

You can use "negative response" to describe an unfavorable reaction to something. For example, "The proposal received a "negative response" from the community".

What are some alternatives to "negative response"?

You can use alternatives like "unfavorable reaction", "adverse reaction", or "hostile reception" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "negative response" and "negative reaction"?

While similar, "negative response" often implies a more considered or articulated reply, while "negative reaction" can refer to a more immediate or emotional response.

When is it appropriate to use "negative response" in formal writing?

"Negative response" is suitable for formal writing when you need a clear and neutral way to describe an unfavorable reaction. In some cases, depending on the specific context, terms as "unfavorable reaction", or "critical response" could be better.